BREAKING NEWS: Giants Running Back Cam Skattebo Faces Harsh Penalty for Career-Ending Injury to Former College Teammate Mattheos Katergaris
New York, NY – June 13, 2025
In a shocking development that has sent tremors through the NFL community, New York Giants running back Cam Skattebo is facing a severe disciplinary penalty following a violent hit that resulted in a career-ending injury to his former college teammate, linebacker Mattheos Katergaris. The incident occurred during last Sunday’s preseason training scrimmage, which was closed to the public but attended by team personnel and media representatives.
Skattebo, a former standout at Sacramento State and Arizona State, collided with Katergaris in what league officials have now classified as “a dangerously excessive and reckless play,” according to the NFL’s official statement released Thursday morning. The hit reportedly came during a routine red-zone drill, but witnesses describe Skattebo’s charge as “uncharacteristically aggressive and far beyond competitive intensity.”
Mattheos Katergaris, a promising undrafted free agent recently signed by the Giants, suffered a severe spinal injury as a result of the collision. He was immediately taken to NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, where doctors confirmed extensive damage to the C6 and C7 vertebrae. Katergaris underwent emergency surgery on Monday and is now in stable condition, but specialists say he will not be able to return to professional football.
In light of the findings and growing public concern, the NFL has issued a six-game suspension to Skattebo, along with a $250,000 fine — one of the largest levied against a non-quarterback in a non-regular-season context. Additionally, the Giants organization announced that Skattebo has been placed on administrative leave pending an internal investigation. The NFL Players Association has indicated that it will appeal the suspension, but a final ruling is expected by the end of next week.
Katergaris and Skattebo were close friends during their college years, sharing the field at Sacramento State before Skattebo transferred to Arizona State for his final collegiate season. The two remained connected on social media and were seen training together during the offseason. This personal history has only added to the complexity and emotional weight of the incident.
Speaking to reporters from his hospital bed, Katergaris gave a brief statement: “I’m still in shock. I never thought something like this would happen, especially with someone I trusted and respected. I’m focusing now on my recovery and my future off the field.”
Public reaction to the incident has been swift and divided. Some fans have criticized the NFL for not doing more to protect players in practice scenarios, while others have voiced support for Skattebo, citing the intensity and unpredictable nature of professional football. Giants head coach Brian Daboll expressed deep sadness over the event, calling it “a devastating moment for the entire team.”
“This is not just about football,” Daboll said. “It’s about the people behind the helmets. We’re hurting as a team, and our hearts are with Mattheos as he begins this incredibly difficult journey.”
While the NFL continues its investigation, analysts are questioning what this incident means for Skattebo’s future. Once seen as a breakout candidate in the Giants’ backfield, his future in the league now hangs in the balance.
This incident serves as a grim reminder of the physical toll and inherent risks of football — and how, even among friends, the line between competition and catastrophe can be frighteningly thin.
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